Duration and Timing of Spermatogenesis in a Stock of the Mussel Mytilus Californianus

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Abstract
Determining the duration and timing of spermatogenesis in Mytilus californianus Conrad became key questions in our study of carcinogen-mutagen indices in the marine environment. We had postulated that the murine sperm deformation assay of Bruce, Furrer & Wyrobek (1974) should have marine analogues, and we assayed a number of marine invertebrates sampled near potentially carcinogenic waste flows, and by γ-ray dose-response experiments. Our field results demonstrated some deformation but only at a very low level (less than 5 % in Mytilus edulis L.). Development of a γ-ray doseresponse (90–900 rads) procedure for M. californianus by radium needle inserted through a drilled hole closed with a plastic plug, and subsequent biopsy of gonadal tissue at measured distances from the site of irradiation, did not show deformations from a pilot test in June 1979. If a viable dose-response procedure was to be developed it was necessary to establish seasonal reproductive timing so that specimens could be collected or cultured to maximize spermatogenesis and hence response potential, and also to establish the duration of spermatogenesis so that response measures via a gonadal tissue extraction could be appropriately timed.